A new grant program from the Capital City Redevelopment Corporation will make up to $1.25 million available to help nonprofits bring more arts, events and street-level activity to downtown Trenton.
Activate Trenton’s Downtown (@Downtown) opened for applications this month and will accept proposals through Feb. 6, 2026.
Awards will range from $25,000 to $300,000, with funding targeted toward programs that support arts and maker communities, promote local history and culture, attract foot traffic to businesses, and invest in ground-floor activations or placemaking.
“Placemaking” refers to enhancements that improve public spaces by making them more vibrant, safe, and welcoming. That can include lighting, seating, signage, or reactivated storefronts.
According to the CCRC, eligible proposals should:
• Support Trenton’s art and maker communities;
• Increase visitation and demand for local businesses;
• Highlight Trenton’s history and/or artistic contributions;
• Create new civic or social programming opportunities; and
• Activate ground-floor spaces or enhance street-level comfort.
Full grant application details are available on the CCRC website at nj.gov/treasury/ccrc/funding.shtml.
The @Downtown program is the first of two new grant initiatives approved by the CCRC board for fiscal year 2026.
The Capital City Redevelopment Corporation is tasked with supporting public and private development in Trenton’s Capital District, with a focus on commerce, recreation and cultural enhancement.
In recent years, the New Jersey Department of the Treasury has revitalized the once-inactive agency to help strengthen the state’s partnership with the City of Trenton.
The CCRC also plays a role in preserving historic sites and investing in new public spaces across the Capital District.
